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About Your Baby About
Your Baby - Main
Page /
Feeding Your Baby
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There seems to always be controversy or discussion about whether breastfeeding is best for your baby and for what length of time. One thing I know for sure is that popular opinion sways and changes from decade to decade. I think that at some point, we all need to relax and do what is best for everyone involved, including baby and baby's mom. Personally, I believe breastfeeding is best whenever possible, however, I found out very quickly with my first daughter that trying to keep her hunger at bay with only breast milk was impossible. I thought I had enough milk ... it was just so hard trying to feed her every hour (or so it seemed) only to have her cry for more when I was sure she'd had plenty. As soon as I gave her a bottle to supplement nursing, she was quite content, thank you. So was I. ;-) If you're a mom who is firm about breastfeeding and you'll go to every extreme to insure your baby is nursed for as long as possible, by all means go for it. Your baby will inherit your immunities (to a point) and be receiving nature's very best food source. You'll find plenty of nursing outfits and cover-ups available today to support you in your decision and life style. And you'll save so much money that would have been spent on bottles and formula, you can start baby's college fund earlier. :-) If you're a mom who just can't bear the thought of breastfeeding, whether it's because your breasts are too tender to start or continue nursing or the thought of having baby attached to you at inopportune times and 24/7 is something that makes you squeamish, then speak with your doctor before baby arrives (or shortly thereafter if it's a decision you've come to after the fact) and find the best infant formula for your particular baby. You might also have a physical condition that prevents you from nursing or a baby who can't/won't nurse. Whatever you do, don't let anyone (Baby's father, your mother, father, mother-in-law, grandmother, doctor, etc.) make you feel guilty. If your baby's father is stressed because you won't or can't breastfeed, talk with him openly about it. As this could become a touchy subject which neither of you need right about now, try to have this conversation before it becomes an issue. If it's too late for pre-baby negotiations, try to understand his point of view and explain yours as clearly and unemotionally as possible. This is not a good time to have marital discord. For everyone's sake, if you're a dad who feels your baby's mother should be breastfeeding your child and she isn't or doesn't want to, please try to let it go. Mom needs as much understanding and support right now as is humanly possible. Baby will be just fine either way. At about four months of age, baby will be ready for a little cereal and a touch of smashed up solid foods. This is the fun part! There are countless processed baby foods on the market. I made my own, with the exception of a few jars of pre-prepared mushy organic fruit varieties to make my life a little easier. Besides, I needed those little jars to fill with my own baby food creations. And yes, I will share my recipes with you on the solid foods page. :-) Go forth into the world of feeding your baby ...
About Your Baby - Site Map This site provides general information and the author's opinions. It is designed for educational purposes only. Always consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns about the health of your child. |
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